3D Printing Materials Market

Market Definition

The market encompasses the production, distribution, and utilization of materials specifically designed for 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing. These materials are essential for creating physical objects from digital designs and vary based on printer types and application needs.

3D Printing Materials Market Overview

Global 3D printing materials market size was USD 2,358.1 million in 2023, which is estimated to be valued at USD 2,858.5 million in 2024 and reach USD 12,583.7 million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 23.58% from 2024 to 2031.

The increasing adoption of 3D printing across industries such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods is significantly boosting the demand for specialized materials. These sectors rely on 3D printing for prototyping, tooling, and producing end-use parts, requiring advanced materials for optimal performance.

Major companies operating in the 3d printing materials market are 3D Systems, Inc., Arkoma, Stratasys, EOS GmbH, Materialise nv, Sandvik AB, Höganäs AB, Evonik Industries AG, BASF, Henkel Corporation, Syensqo, Sculpteo, Desktop Metal, Inc., Proto Labs, Nexa3D, and others.

The market is evolving rapidly, fueled by innovations in material properties and expanding industry applications. As various sectors adopt additive manufacturing, the demand for high-performance, customizable, and sustainable materials is growing. This evolution is reshaping manufacturing processes by offering greater design flexibility and production efficiency.

The growth of the market is marked by ongoing advancements in material science, presenting new possibilities in product development and the creation of complex, intricate structures previously difficult to achieve.

• In November 2024, the ECOFAP project, coordinated by AIMPLAS and involving Pikolinos, Evatalking, and the Footwear Technology Centre of La Rioja, aims to create 3D-printed shoe soles and heels from tanned leather waste. The project focuses on recycling leather scraps to reduce environmental impact while promoting a circular economy.

Key Highlights:

1. The 3D printing materials industry size was recorded at USD 2358.1 million in 2023.
2. The market is projected to grow at a robust CAGR of 23.58% from 2024 to 2031.
3. Asia Pacific held a share of 38.73% in 2023, valued USD 913.3 million, and is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 24.78% through the forecast period.
4. The fused deposition modeling (FDM) segment garnered USD 765.2 million in revenue in 2023.
5. The aerospace & defense segment is expected to reach USD 4,034.5 million by 2031.
6. The plastics & polymer segment held a share of 39.10% in 2023.
7. The liquid segment is anticipated to grow at a staggering CAGR of 28.81% through the forecast period.

Market Driver

"Wide Adoption of 3D Printing"

The widespread adoption across industries such as aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods is fueling the growth of the 3D printing materials market.

• In June 2024, Stratasys partnered with AM Craft to expand the use of flight-certified 3D printed parts in aviation. This collaboration boosts the demand for certified 3D printing materials, addressing supply chain challenges and fostering innovation in aviation manufacturing.

As these industries increasingly integrate 3D printing for prototyping, tooling, and end-use production, the demand for specialized materials rises. This shift necessitates the development of high-performance, tailored materials that meet specific requirements for durability, precision, and functionality, fostering innovation and expanding market offerings.

• In November 2024, SQUARED, a Stratasys subsidiary, expanded its material portfolio for Stratasys 3D printers with the launch of "iSQUARED Validated Materials," enhancing access to application-specific materials for niche uses. Additionally, a marketplace for pre-owned Stratasys machines promotes sustainability by supporting a circular economy.

Market Challenge

"Material Compatibility in 3D Printing"

Material compatibility presents a significant challenge to the growth of the 3D printing materials market, as not all materials are compatible with every 3D printing technology. This limits design flexibility and hinders manufacturers from utilizing multiple materials in one production process. 

This challenge can be addressed by developing universal, multi-material-compatible filaments and resins, coupled with advancements in 3D printer technology that allow for easier material switching. Collaborative efforts between material developers and printer manufacturers can create standardized solutions, expanding material usage options and streamlining production.

• In October 2024, Boston Micro Fabrication (BMF) introduced four advanced materials for its microArch series 3D printers, improving material compatibility and performance. These include BASF Ultracur3D 3280 and BMF resins, allowing industries such as aerospace and medical devices to manufacture precise, high-performance components with enhanced heat resistance and flexibility.

Market Trend

"Development of Recyclable Materials"

A significant trend in the 3D printing materials industry is the development of recyclable and reusable materials. Manufacturers are increasingly focused on creating 3D printing materials that can be recycled, supporting the principles of the circular economy. 

This trend helps reduce waste in the production process, lowers environmental impact, and aligns with sustainability goals across industries. The rise of biodegradable and recyclable filaments, resins, and powders allows companies to minimize material waste while maintaining high-performance standards in their products.

• In November 2024, Stratasys introduced SAF ReLife, a software-based solution that repurposes PA12 powder waste from 3D printing into functional parts. This innovation promotes sustainability by reducing material waste, cutting production costs, and lowering carbon footprints, supporting the circular economy in 3D printing.

3D Printing Materials Market Report Snapshot

Market Segmentation:

• By Technology (Stereolithography (SLA), Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM), Selective Laser Sintering (SLS), Direct Metal Laser Sintering (DMLS), Electron Beam Melting (EBM), and Others ): The FDM segment earned USD 765.2 million in 2023, fueled by due to its widespread adoption in prototyping, low-volume production, and cost-effective manufacturing across  automotive, consumer goods, and healthcare industries.
• By Application (Automotive, Medical, Consumer Products & Industrial, Aerospace & Defense, and Others): The medical segment held a share of 28.08% in 2023, largely attributed to the growing use of 3D printing for personalized implants, surgical tools, prosthetics, and rapid prototyping of medical devices.
• By Material (Plastics & Polymer, Thermoplastics, Metals, and Others): The plastics & polymer segment is projected to reach USD 5,479.6 million by 2031, primarily fueled by the increasing demand for lightweight, cost-effective, and versatile materials in industries such as automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods.
• By Form (Powder, Liquid, and Filament): The liquid segment is anticipated to have a CAGR of 28.81% through the forecast period, mainly due to its suitability for producing complex, detailed, and high-strength parts.

3D Printing Materials Market Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global market has been classified into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, MEA, and Latin America.

The Asia-Pacific 3D printing materials market accounted for a share of around 38.73% in 2023, valued at USD 913.3 million. This dominance is reinforced by rapid technological advancements, strong manufacturing bases, and increasing adoption of 3D printing across industries such as automotive, healthcare, aerospace, and electronics. 

Countries like China, Japan, and South Korea lead in both production and research of innovative 3D printing materials. Additionally, the region's growing focus on smart manufacturing, cost-efficient production methods, and investments in additive manufacturing technologies boosts the demand for advanced 3D printing materials.

• In July 2024, Bright Laser Technologies (BLT) introduced new high-strength aluminum (BLT-AlAM500) and Ti65 powders for additive manufacturing. These innovations address challenges such as cracking and poor density, offering cost-effective, high-performance solutions for aerospace and industrial applications while improving quality and reducing manufacturing costs.

Europe 3D printing materials market is set to grow at a CAGR of 23.02% through the estimated timeframe. This growth is mainly propelled by the region's strong emphasis on innovation, research, and development across various industries. 

Countries such as Germany, the UK, and France are at the forefront of adopting additive manufacturing technologies, with significant investments in aerospace, automotive, healthcare, and consumer goods. 

The region's focus on sustainability and the circular economy, combined with advancements in material science, is fostering demand for specialized 3D printing materials, making Europe a key region in the global market.

Region’s Regulatory Framework Also Plays a Significant Role in Shaping the Market

• In the U.S., the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is responsible for protecting public health by ensuring the safety, efficacy, and security of human and veterinary drugs, biological products, and medical devices, as well as the nation's food, cosmetics, and products that emit radiation.
• The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) unites global experts to establish best  practices across various sectors, facilitating trade and cooperation  as one of the oldest non-governmental international organizations.
• REACH, European Union regulation, aims to protect human health and the environment from chemical risks while enhancing the competitiveness of the EU chemicals industry. It also promotes alternative methods for hazard assessment to reduce animal testing.
• The EU's Restriction of Hazardous Substances (RoHS) Directive limits the use of certain hazardous substances in electrical and electronic equipment. equipment.

Competitive Landscape:

The 3D printing materials industry is characterized by a number of participants, including both established corporations and rising organizations. Companies in the market are introducing innovative materials such as high-strength alloys, bio-based resins, and recyclable filaments. 

Advancements focus on improved material durability, enhanced printing precision, and sustainability efforts to address diverse industry demands and reduce environmental impact.

• In January 2025, researchers at the University of New Mexico patented a self-reinforced ultra-ductile cementitious material for 3D concrete printing. This innovative material enhances structural integrity, minimizes the need for external reinforcement, and promotes automation, advancing 3D printing applications in construction.

List of Key Companies in 3D Printing Materials Market:

• 3D Systems, Inc.
• Arkema
• Stratasys
• EOS GmbH
• Materialise nv
• Sandvik AB
• Höganäs AB
• Evonik Industries AG
• BASF
• Henkel Corporation
• Syensqo
• Sculpteo
• Desktop Metal, Inc.
• Proto Labs

Recent Developments:

• In January 2025, Tethon 3D partnered with CONCR3DE to promote the adoption of 3D printed ceramics in the U.S. By combining Tethon 3D’s material expertise in materials with CONCR3DE’s binder jetting technology, the partnership aims to foster innovation in high-performance, sustainable ceramics across industries.
• In July 2024, Tethon 3D introduced Genesis, a high-speed cure resin that enables ceramic 3D printing without the need for heated printers. This innovation enhances accessibility for resin printer users while ensuring high-quality results for complex ceramic parts.
• In November 2023, Stratasys announced that Toyota was the first customer to purchase the new F3300 3D printer. This advanced FDM printer enhances Toyota’s production and prototyping capabilities by enhancing speed, accuracy, and cost-efficiency.
• In June 2023, CRP Technology launched Windform XT 2.0 IMG, a high-performance, 100% recycled injection molding material made from Windform XT 2.0 3D printing material. This sustainable composite, reinforced with carbon fibers, offers durability, aesthetics, and a reduced carbon footprint for industrial production.
• In April 2023, Stratasys Ltd. acquired Covestro AG's additive manufacturing materials business, enhancing its portfolio with 60 materials, R&D facilities, and a robust IP collection. This acquisition strengthens Stratasys’ leadership and fosters innovation across key 3D printing technologies.